The Volkswagen Group may not have a reliable off-roader in its extensive portfolio – well, maybe the Amarok – but it certainly knows how to make robust derivatives of its usual models. From Skoda’s Scout and VW’s Alltrack to Audi’s Allroad and Porsche’s upcoming Cross Turismo, VAG offers many models for those who do not love sports utility vehicles, but who want their extra versatility.
Another Stuttgart newcomer that fits the bill is the 911 Safari (name not confirmed). Unlike the one-time 911 one-time creation that has been kept secret for years, it is generally expected that this prototype will turn into a production engine. Whether it’s a regular trim level or a limited special edition remains to be seen, but people with deep pockets looking for a more adventurous version of the iconic sports car should be able to get it.
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The test vehicle was spotted in a winter wonderland somewhere in Northern Europe, while much like a standard 911. However, there are some discrete changes that are worth pointing out. The increased ride height is one of them, while the wheel arch extensions are also noticeable. In addition, Porsche has adapted the bumpers to improve the approach and departure angles.
You can easily see that the front bumper has been shaved off a bit, while the rear license plate is positioned higher to redesign the bumper and get ready for some gentle off-road adventures. We expect the production version to get a bunch of tires and a custom alloy wheel design, as well as some subtle changes to separate the “Safari” from the more performance-oriented 911s.
Since Porsche has been testing built-up 911 prototypes since at least October 2020 when our spies caught one on camera, the official debut could take place later this year. It would make sense to offer the ‘Safari’ with standard four-wheel drive, so maybe the donor car is the 4S model. Expect to pay a significant premium above the $ 4,400 standard 4S due to the extra off-road goodies. Power can remain the same at 443 hp from a twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-engine that delivers 530 Newton meters of torque.
Besides the Safari, espionage shots showed that there are still 911s in the pipeline to follow the newly launched GT3. The GTS is one of them, along with a GT3 Touring, a GT3 RS, and finally a new GT2 RS. Porsche also announced that a hybrid will arrive sooner or later, and who knows what the boys and girls from Zuffenhausen are planning further as well.